Proposed Lidl branch in Zebbug given green light by PA

Malta's Planning Authority has approved a permit for Lidl to build an additional outlet, on the outskirts of Zebbug, after it says changes to the designs reduced the take-up of land outside the development zone and gave more consideration to the local environment.

The project will entail the demolition of the existing Cortis timber factory building on the site and the construction of the supermarket, with a ground-level car park for 252 vehicles.

Additionally, a basement for the processing and distribution of timber products is included in the plans.

The Planning Authority had, in 2020, postponed a decision on the application, instructing the applicant to address a number of issues including those relating to its use of 'outside development zone' (ODZ) land.

The revised design is said to have addressed this and made a number of concessions in order to make the project more sensitive to its surroundings.

The planning board concurred, citing the applicant's addition of bicycle racks and car charging stations as allowing visiting customers to opt for alternative means of transport.

Additionally, the area will be landscaped with trees and shrubs and grass block pavers will cover an approximate area of 1,400 square metres.

The applicant has also committed to the full restoration of 'il-Mithna ta' Srina', a Grade 1 windmill, including the restoration of its blades.

The board was satisfied that the Traffic Impact Assessment was reviewed, with all necessary scientific studies including new traffic counts receiving the clearance of Transport Malta.

The project was submitted by Joseph Cortis on behalf of Central Business Centres.